An evaluation of a computer based education  program for the diagnosis and management of  dementia in primary care. An international study  of the transcultural adaptations necessary for  European dissemination.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to make an inventory of the changes that are needed to make an interactive computer based training program (ICBT) with a specific educational content, acceptable to professional communities with different linguistic,cultural and health care backgrounds in different European countries.


METHODS
Existing educational software, written in two languages was reviewed by GPs and primary care professionals in three different countries. Reviewers worked through the program using a structured critical reading grid.


RESULTS
A 'simple' translation of the program is not sufficient. Minor changes are needed to take account of linguistic differences and medical semantics. Major changes are needed in respect of the existing clinical guidelines in every country related to differences in the existing health care systems.


CONCLUSIONS
ICTB programs cannot easily be used in different countries and cultures. The development of a structured educational program needs collaboration between educationalists, domain experts, information technology advisers and software engineers. Simple validation of the content by local expert groups will not guarantee the program's exportability. It is essential to involve different national expert groups at every phase of the development process in order to disseminate it in other countries.
Degryse
J
J
Department of General Practice, Kapucijnenvoer 33, K.U. Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. Jan.degryse@med.kuleuven.be
De Lepeleire
J
J
Southgate
L
L
Vernooij-Dassen
M
M
Gay
B
B
Heyrman
J
J
D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D054521:Cultural Competency; D003704:Dementia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005060:Europe; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D011320:Primary Health Care